Sugar User Group: Calculated and Dependent Fields in SugarCRM

In January, Amanda Anderson and Aaron Wine hosted a user group on calculated and dependent fields in SugarCRM. The session covered how to create dependent fields, most common use cases for calculated fields and updates on Sugar’s upcoming releases. Aaron and Amanda wrapped up the session with a Q & A discussion. Below are the video recording, and some of the questions and answers from the event.

Sugar User Group Q&A

Q: Would it be possible to calculate a type of sub panel item. For instance, count only outbound calls?A: Unfortunately this is not available straight out of the box. However, we can do this via a simple custom code snippet.

Q: Will concat() work in real time as fields are updated?A: Yes, even if you don’t save while you’re making changes, it will automatically update the field in question.

Q: Can you select multiple "dropdowns" in a formula field? Say you want X to show up if either A or B is selected.A: Yes, you can use multiple fields in the formula editor and you can also use the ifelse() function to provide different paths to get your data.

Q: Is it possible to have calculated fields update automatically without having to save the record?A: If you are talking about having it calculated while you are editing, then yes, it will update before saving. If you are talking about having the fields recalculate automatically, then you will either need to do a mass update and save periodically or have some workflows in the workflow management that will re-save the record. This is typically used for roll-up fields when the children records change.

Q: Can you explain what inbound and outbound means?A: That is just the call’s direction. If someone calls me it’s inbound and if I call someone then it’s outbound.

Q: How is the call data populated automatically?A: If you’re referencing a whole record, you can import the data or use custom code to integrate your phone system (using Twilio) to integrate it into Sugar. But if you’re referring to a calculated field data than just check the checkbox labeled “calculated field” and add the formula you want.

To register for the next SugarCRM User Group, click here. If you have any additional questions or want to learn more, contact us here.